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BS: Interview Tips?
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Subject: Interview Tips? From: Morticia Date: 02 Apr 01 - 04:49 PM I am going for an job interview on Friday....I find them torture of the worst kind...that I have a job at all is a miracle, so bad am I at them! The normally confident and cheerful woman you have all come to know and love...oh alright, know then...goes to shreds, sweats, stammers and is hard pressed to remember her own name let alone four relevant pieces of social legislation and their impact on social services in the last three years. Please does anyone have any tips or hints as to how to get myself through this ordeal without making a complete eejit of myself? |
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Subject: RE: BS: Interview Tips? From: Amergin Date: 02 Apr 01 - 04:53 PM Morty, I am with you on the interview thing....I hate them and find them to be among the hardest things I can do....and not very well oftentimes....no tips here....except try not scratching your beard too much.... |
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Subject: RE: BS: Interview Tips? From: Hollowfox Date: 02 Apr 01 - 05:57 PM Libraries in the USA have books on how to survive interviews, so perhaps there are some in your neighborhood library as well. And my father always advised me that it was better to be a bit over-dressed than a bit too informal. (Good luck to you; I hate job interviews, too.) |
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Subject: RE: BS: Interview Tips? From: Greyeyes Date: 02 Apr 01 - 06:27 PM The shelf number will be 650.14 in most UK public libraries. |
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Subject: RE: BS: Interview Tips? From: catspaw49 Date: 02 Apr 01 - 07:09 PM First RELAX!!! Dress well...better overdressed than underdressed.....no joke here.........Then consider the following: Do you have a job now? Love it or hate it, you have a job so the world doesn't revolve around getting a new one. Are you good at your job? Do you think dozens of people are going to show up who are better and does it matter if you're STILL damn good?.....and I betcha' are! The interviewer has more experience at interviews than you do so tell them the truth. "Gee, I really am nervous and I know I shouldn't be, but a job interview always scares me to death. Am I the only one this happens to?" Five will get you a hundred they'll tell you a story or two at that point and it will help break the ice. People love to help you out. If the above doesn't break the ice (or even if it does) continue to ask questions about things. "I think I understand your question, but let me be sure of what you're asking. Are you asking........" and rephrase the question. They will probably give you the answer they're after or at least a clue to it and you have bought time to formulate a better answer. Listen!!! Never be so concerned about what to answer that you haven't heard what was being said. Relax and it gets easier. Take the time to think through your answer. In this case, the race is not to the swift. Be truthful. That can include saying, "I'm not really sure I can answer that." Then tail it with a question...."Can you give me an idea as to what you're looking for here?" Can you make eye contact? Great! Just don't stare and don't hesitate to glance away, especially if you can pull-off a thoughtful look. The eye contact thing is beaten to death and I've had people who wouldn't take their eyes off of me! Very annoying and real phony. Smile......when it's appropriate. Just be natural. Only an asshole smiles continually! Maintain good posture, but don't look like a stick! Again.....RELAX!!!!! ******************************************************** I got more, but I'm convinced that anyone can beat the interview game if they think it through a bit. ...........and no matter what, I love ya'!!! And the rest of the joint too.......we all love ya' Mort. Now come on over and sit on Uncle Spaw's lap so I can show you this trick.................. Uncle Pat (did lots of interviews from the other side of the desk) |
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Subject: RE: BS: Interview Tips? From: Helen Date: 02 Apr 01 - 07:35 PM All of the above, and this: do your preparation at home. The last really good job I landed I used a one page table which I worked out on the word processor of all the jobs & experience I had which was relevant to this job along the top row, and the essential and desirable criteria of this job down the left hand column. I then put a tick in the boxes of whichever jobs related to those criteria. Then, in the interview, if one of the questions related to one of these criteria I just looked across the row and said: "When I worked at XYZ I did blah blah blah, and this is what outcomes I achieved". (Outcomes and achievements are very important.) I also had a second page of my strengths and also my weaknesses (now referred to as "challenges") which I rephrased into positive statements, e.g. "I am working on being more systematic to improve my time management skills". In that same interview I had one of those plastic refillable pencils and the top part swivelled around the bottom half. I discovered that day that I could be sitting there with my hands hidden by the table swivelling that pencil like crazy, letting out all my fidgeting and nervousness but none of the movement showed above the table. I used it deliberately as an interview aid after that. Having a really well-written Resume/C.V. which states your experience and capabilities helps you to keep a straight face when you are telling them your strengths as well. By being prepared beforehand you increase your chances dramatically in the interview itself. Find a good trusted friend to help you rehearse your answers too. Someone who will give you sensitive but constructive feedback, someone who has experience as an interviewer or who is good at analysing verbal messages. Go get 'em, girl! Helen |
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Subject: RE: BS: Interview Tips? From: Morticia Date: 02 Apr 01 - 07:55 PM hey, good stuff...thank you guys! |
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Subject: RE: BS: Interview Tips? From: Mary in Kentucky Date: 02 Apr 01 - 07:56 PM Been there MANY times! 1) write out 4 or 5 "answers" or anecdotes on notecards. Memorize them. You know, all your witty, intelligent, concise comments. Then store them in your purse as an emotional crutch. I don't know why this works, but it's kinda like making a grocery list and then leaving the list at home. You seem to remember things that you've written down. 2) Be sure to have pen and paper handy. (Don't fumble in your purse!) 3) Obviously, do your research on the company you're interviewing with. Know their stats. As 'fox says, there are tons of books telling you what to do and what not to do. Believe me, almost all of the interviewers and interviewees have read these books. (One says to never sit down until after the interviewer does. Also, when the cue to leave comes, act quickly and curteously.) Practice your handshake and introduction amenities. All the books say to stress what you can do for the company, not what the company can do for you. 4) On most of my interviews, a Human Resources person would talk to me first. You know, all the people questions, tell me all about the company and propagandize a bit. (I feel these folks are neither human nor a resource...Just a joke folks, but sadly reflecting some of my very bad experiences with them.) These folks do this a lot and are good at it. They've heard all the answers so just BE YOURSELF. Don't try to be witty, charming, cute, etc. *BG* After this first interview I would then talk to the person who would be my boss, if hired. In my case it would be a scientist or engineer. These folks were always wonderful. I always felt like I had more experience interviewing than they did! They would explain about the job then ask if I had any questions. Now this is the important part...Have some questions ready. Then a favorite transition comment would be to say that I would have more questions when I saw the facilities, etc. Since they usually planned a tour, that was a nice way to keep the conversation flowing. 4) Because I toured labs (which had rubber webbing with huge holes on the floor) and manufacturing plants (some quite primitive), I always had to have "sensible" shoes in my briefcase. 5) A rule of thumb: The first person who mentions money...loses. Meaning, know whether you can negotiate or not. Some jobs you can, some you can't. Never mention money on the first interview (unless of course you are pressured to.) The interviewer's goal is to find out the least amount of money they can get you for. Sometimes you can put them off by saying you'd like to get paid what you're worth or state a range (they'll hear the bottom number), or just say that there are too many variables such as fringe benefits, vacation, etc. and you will have to think about your offer. 6) Write a thank-you note. Hope this helps. In most of my interviews there was a secretary or security person who greeted me first and told me to smile and relax! Mary PS Knock 'em dead Morty...and think of Mel and me when you walk in! |
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Subject: RE: BS: Interview Tips? From: SINSULL Date: 02 Apr 01 - 08:15 PM Morty, If you have reached the face to face interview stage, they are interested in you. Once you have a list of skills identified, find a way to work them into your interview. He says: "What qualifies you this position?" You have a list. Do your homework. Find out everything you can about the company interviewing you. Website, news articles, etc. and tailor your skills to fill their current needs. Remember - you are interviewing them as much as they are interviewing you. You don't want "a" job. You want the right job for your personality and skills.You want an opportunity to grow. Be prepared for the "What would you say is your main weakness?" question and answer it in a positive fashion - eg. I tend to be impatient to get a task finished but have learned to dot all my "i"s and cross all my "t"s. Or I used to be a perfectionist allowing no room for error from those I supervise. Now I understand that people learn by their mistakes. My job is to see that they are comfortable enough to take a chance and informed enough to know the limits of risk-taking. In short - you have no faults. And don't volunteer any. If the job requires overnight travel - you love to travel. If it requires that you sit at a computer all day - you live for the computer. Remember, you don't have to take the position when it is offered. Don't bring up salary. But if they do, speak in terms of ranges knowing what the market is for that particular job. "I expect to earn $30 to $35000 base depending upon the benefits/bonus package that is included." Always ask at the end: "Is there anything I haven't covered that you need more information on?" AND MOST IMPORTANT "Are there any concerns about me or my qualifications that I can clear up for you now?" find your own way of asking this but ask. You may be amazed at what comes up. And you can deal with it on the spot rather than try to backtrack later. Get out on as many interviews as you can and treat each one as if it were the only job in the world for you. The job offers do wonders for your self-confidence and the practice is good for when THE job comes along. Kate Wendleton has done several books on resume writing and interviewing. You can borrow mine if you like. Good Luck. You'll be fine. Mary, who successfully placed welfare clients in great jobs but alas rarely managed to see them stay for more than a month or two. Such a waste of talent and stuff for another thread. |
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Subject: RE: BS: Interview Tips? From: SINSULL Date: 02 Apr 01 - 08:24 PM Make sure you stress at the end that you are interested in the position and ask "What is the next step?" Follow up on the interview and if you don't get the position ask "How can I improve my interviewing skills?" You can learn a lot if you are willing to handle some criticism and take the advice for what it is worth. |
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Subject: RE: BS: Interview Tips? From: SINSULL Date: 02 Apr 01 - 08:28 PM Mary and I cross posted. Sorry for the repetition but maybe "We're both right!" Cutesy twin grin in place. |
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Subject: RE: BS: Interview Tips? From: Mary in Kentucky Date: 02 Apr 01 - 08:51 PM Do I hear an echo...or "just" another Mary? |
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Subject: RE: BS: Interview Tips? From: Rick Fielding Date: 03 Apr 01 - 01:12 AM Morticia, back in my mis-spent early twenties, I was forced (by guilt) to go to five separate job interviews. Astonishingly I got all FIVE (office) jobs. I was fired from each of those jobs within one to two months. I am absolutely convinced that I aced those interviews 'cause I really didn't care if I GOT the jobs or not...therefore I wasn't nervous. If you can just fake that attitude you've got it made. Rick |
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Subject: RE: BS: Interview Tips? From: Frug Date: 03 Apr 01 - 04:08 AM Morticia....Yesterday I was teaching interview techniques to a group of kids who's employment pospects will never be great. The strong message from me was identify your strength/s and sell those, play the game on your terms. Interviews are not meant to be a trial but a performance opportunity. Give your audience what they want, a good show.........they want you to succeed not fail that's why they've invited you for interview. Good site for crib notes www.bradleycvs.demon.co.uk/interview. Good luck! |
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Subject: RE: BS: Interview Tips? From: KingBrilliant Date: 03 Apr 01 - 04:59 AM Hi Morticia, I'm having interviews at the moment too, so this thread is very timely! Last week I tried eating bananas before the interview (many threads advise this for beta-blocking properties when playing music, so I thought it might cross-apply) - it seemed to work as I didn't get the usual nerves & burbling..... Mind you - I haven't heard back about the job yet :( My theory is that half the battle is in trying to get the interviewer to like you - so that they dearly want to give you the job. I've seen this work at the Company I currently work for - you'd be amazed at the extra brownie points they give to an interviewee that they personally liked. I don't mean that you should be false - just be your lovely self and you'll have a head start!!! Someone told me recently that they always make sure that they have prepared enough to talk about for the whole interview - so that if they are asked a question they can't answer then they can at least try to bend it around & talk about the things they want to get across. That way you have a bunch of points in your head that you want to convey & it works a bit like a checklist & puts you more in control. I hope it all goes well (I'm sure it will) - let us know........ And try the banana magic... Kris |
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Subject: RE: BS: Interview Tips? From: sledge Date: 03 Apr 01 - 05:05 AM Moricia, Sorry no advice, just the very Best of luck. |
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Subject: RE: BS: Interview Tips? From: Liz the Squeak Date: 03 Apr 01 - 05:43 AM Don't tell them the story about you and the Pint of Baileys..... Don't let on that you can do the job a bloody sight better than the person already in it. Try and think of some systems that you have already put in place in other areas, that are working, and admit to changing those that haven't if they ask, because no-one likes a smartarse! Good luck, will be thinking of you, let me know what time it is please, I'd hate to turn up on your doorstep whilst you were doing the brick thing......: ) LTS |
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Subject: RE: BS: Interview Tips? From: Gervase Date: 03 Apr 01 - 07:15 AM Pat's advice is bloody good. And good luck, ol' fruit! Remember - whatever happens, they can't kill you for it (at least not in the UK). |
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Subject: RE: BS: Interview Tips? From: Grab Date: 03 Apr 01 - 07:56 AM Beware of Helen's advice. Someone fiddling with a pen continually is VERY obviously nervous. And doing it below the desk could look suspicious, depending on how you're sitting... ;-) My tip is to wear quite a heavy, loose-fitting top. If you're nervous then you sweat, and enormous damp patches under your arms aren't attractive. I've got some heavy-duty Oxford shirts which are great for interviews - the sweat can be rolling down your armpits to your waist, but the material's so thick, no-one can tell! Graham. |
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Subject: RE: BS: Interview Tips? From: Diva Date: 03 Apr 01 - 08:16 AM well this is not a tip exactly but just something that happened. I had an at home break while Jane was wee and decided I needed to get back to work. So I went into my local Woolies in Hawick and asked if they'd any jobs and went off clutching an application form. Tip no. 1: if they ask what would your ideal job be perhaps its better not to put "taster for Terry's of York". However I got an interview and all was progressing fairly well with the assistant manager when the Boss came in. Just thought he'd pop in and he'd noticed that I came from Ayr and went to the Catholic Secondary there. Oh says he you did Maths,did you ever get a female maths teacher.....well there was a Miss Davey but I was never in her class but I got her for RE and went on to say she had a glass eye and we used to sit and try and work out what on it was. The right one,says he,shes my sister. Open mouth,insert foot. I never made the connection as I pronounced his name the Ayrshire way and in Hawick its pronounced differently. I got the job. |
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Subject: RE: BS: Interview Tips? From: Diva Date: 03 Apr 01 - 08:17 AM BTW.....good luck. Diva |
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Subject: RE: BS: Interview Tips? From: Bagpuss Date: 03 Apr 01 - 08:24 AM Is honesty the best policy? When asked about gaps in my cv, and reasons for leaving my last job, should I give them a convincing lie (or rather selective truths), or should I be honest about my history of depression and that I want to leave my current job because the hierarchy and personnel department did not treat me fairly as a person with a disability? I have a couple of applications out and I am hoping for an interview from at least one of them and I need to be prepared for how to appoach this subject. Bagpuss |
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Subject: RE: BS: Interview Tips? From: Mr Red Date: 03 Apr 01 - 08:32 AM Be relaxed. There are ways of relaxing. avoid barrier signals like folded arms and crossed legs, OK in short burst. |
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Subject: RE: BS: Interview Tips? From: SINSULL Date: 03 Apr 01 - 08:37 AM Bagpuss - You are leaving this job because the opportunity no longer suits your goals. Don't EVER bad mouth an employer. It is a giant red flag that marks you as a potential problem. I took a tear off for depression. My interview story was that my company downsized (true) and my severance package allowed me to take some time off (almost true). having worked or gone to school full time since the age of 14, I allowed myself the time off to relax and re think my career choices. Always turn a negative into a positive. And always present it so matter of factly that the interviewer accepts the logic of iot and moves on. If you are not comfortable with your time off, they won't be. On the other hand, my brother was out of work for almost five years. He was very up front about his depression and recovery. And sold his recovery as the best thing that could have happened to him. In his case, it was important to have people to support his story - former co-workers, people he worked for part time, etc. Bagpuss, if you would like to get in touch with him, I can arrange it and he will be supportive. |
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Subject: RE: BS: Interview Tips? From: Whistle Stop Date: 03 Apr 01 - 09:07 AM Lots of good advice here. I've been involved in lots of interviews, on both sides of the table. What works for me is remembering that the job is a mutual arrangement -- you give them something, they give you something. Therefore, not only are they interviewing you -- you are interviewing them. This helps with the nervousness, and keeps the whole process in perspective. It also helps you feel and convey a certain confidence, which is very important. Sounds kind of vague, but I find it really makes a difference. good luck. |
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Subject: RE: BS: Interview Tips? From: KingBrilliant Date: 03 Apr 01 - 10:16 AM Bagpuss - I'd go for selective truths. You don't have to outright lie - but its quite likely that some interviewers are likely to be unsympathetic and ill-informed on the subject (they may be uncomfortable with the subject & you certainly don't want them to feel uncomfortable during the interview). So its wise to suss them out a bit before volunteering too much information. Total & complete honesty is not essential - they will be expecting you to present yourself to your best advantage - and they will be doing the same.... Best of luck. Kris |
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Subject: RE: BS: Interview Tips? From: catspaw49 Date: 03 Apr 01 - 11:08 AM Sinsull has some good advice regarding "selective truths" and turning negatives to positives, but if you fumble around with that approach you're in trouble. Its a good idea, don't get me wrong, but if you don't believe it yourself, the person across the desk won't either and will ask a few questions which will probably expose the lie. I had a guy in for a sales position and his record (verifiable) with another company in the auto equipment business was outstanding. Then came a two year gap. He was currently working out of sales as a dealer service writer. I asked about it and he said, "I'd like to tell you something good about that, but to be truthful........." and then gave me a 3 minute summary of his problems of burnout and pressure. It made sense, I'd seen it happen to others, and he had a plan to keep it from happening again, which included having a clear understanding of expectations from whatever company he would work for in the future. Sold me......and became a solid producing, "no problems" rep within the first 4 months. When I left the company he was still cranking it out regularly, good numbers, no problems to his regional manager, no customer complaints. The truth CAN be to your benefit.....even the worst of it probably has a good side somewhere. Find it. If you don't you'll fail in the new job too, even if you get it. Spaw |
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Subject: RE: BS: Interview Tips? From: Bagpuss Date: 03 Apr 01 - 11:34 AM Thanks for the advice 'spaw, but I really do resent the assumption that I have *failed* in my current job. I did extremely well in my current job. I became ill and had some time off, but ever since then, it has been obvious that my employers regard me as a problem, rather than an employee with a disability. I would rather not work under those conditions. I have not failed at anything. My employers have failed to live up to their own anti discrimination policies. See - even the most well meaning people see depression as a failing or a personality flaw (even if it is only subconsciously) rather than an illness or disability. By the way, its National Depression Week in the UK this week. Maybe all of us could take some time to find out a bit more about the condition. Thanks Bagpuss |
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Subject: RE: BS: Interview Tips? From: Morticia Date: 03 Apr 01 - 12:31 PM Thank you everyone for some really good advice and support.It occurs to me that failing this interview will be very public, but I have better chance of not doing so with all the help you've given. |
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Subject: RE: BS: Interview Tips? From: Homeless Date: 03 Apr 01 - 12:36 PM Having interviewed quite a few people for software development positions, I'll tell you the things I notice and things I look for. Be honest. If someone asks a question you'd rather not answer, and don't have a half truth for, say you'd rather not discuss it. Someone who has an embarassing past I will still consider, someone who lies to me, I won't. One sentence answering why you won't discuss it is good tho. (I have a 3.5 year gap in my work history. All I have to answer when someone inquires about that is "marital problems" and everyone is satisfied - no further explanation needed.) Answer questions directly. If you don't understand the question, ask for clarification. I've had a few people that sidestepped almost every question I asked. I don't know if they were intentionally evading answering, didn't understand the question and were afraid to ask, or just had a short attention span. But none of the above reasons endeared them to me. Be prepared. Have extra copies of your resume, references, school and work history. Bring a folder with a pad of paper and pen in it. Avoid flashy jewelry or makeup. Anything that distracts from your face is bad. When someone is listening to what you say, you don't want their concentration broken by the swing and sparkle of a big flashy earring. Balance social and professionalism. An interview is a way to show off your work habits. If I am interviewing someone and all they want to do is share anecdotes or chit-chat, I have doubts about their ability to work unattended - they might spend too much time socializing with co-workers. I want someone who knows when and how to work without needing a babysitter hovering over them. However, if the interviewer is the person you will be working for/with, they may want to get an idea of what your personality is like so they can tell if they'd be able to work with you. Be prepared, part II. Get a list of common interview questions (from the books mentioned above, or I could PM you the ones I use if you are interested) and know your answers for them before you go in. It will take less thinking time. One of the hardest question to give an impromptu answer for is "Give me two words that describe everything about you."
Remember that the interviewer is not your enemy. You are not competing with him/her. If you are asked a question and you see multiple ways to answer it, say that it is too open ended for you to answer. Ask what they are looking for so you can give a better answer.
That's all I can think of off the top of my head. |
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Subject: RE: BS: Interview Tips? From: Amergin Date: 03 Apr 01 - 12:45 PM Bagpuss, I am with you on that.....there have been a couple of times where I have been out of work, for almost a year, due to depression....I have always found it very difficult to find work, with that huge of a gap....but some how I always landed one..... |
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Subject: RE: BS: Interview Tips? From: sledge Date: 04 Apr 01 - 03:53 AM Oh Morty, one piece of advice that may or may not be acceptable, keep a fully loaded hip flask in your bag/pocket for afterwards. :) Stuart |
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Subject: RE: BS: Interview Tips? From: Joe Offer Date: 04 Apr 01 - 04:26 AM Gee, the last time I applied for a job was 1974, but I've interviewed thousands of applicants since then (sometimes I was hiring an employee, and more often I was investigating the person for a security clearance or for a sensitive job in another government agency). I was pretty free to do whatever I wanted in the interview, and what I wanted to do is just chat and get to know the subject. Some people were very defensive, and seemed to be afraid to let me get to know them. Some tried to be aggressive, to take charge of the interview and get me to do what they wanted me to do. Some seemed downright dishonest and elusive, and I wrote them off right away - but I had to toy with them a while to catch them in lies I could document. I looked for honesty, above all else. I also tended to favor people who had a genuine interest in the work, and in working in general. Intelligence, maturity, and common sense all help a lot. Knowledge of the job can help, but a person who's trainable is often more valuable that a person who got set in his ways at another employer. I found it very difficult to hire people when I didn't like them, even if they seemed to be qualified for the job. I did hire a few, and I lived to regret it. So, it's a good idea to be nice, and to be human. Good luck. -Joe Offer- |
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Subject: RE: BS: Interview Tips? From: catspaw49 Date: 04 Apr 01 - 05:01 AM Excuse me Bagpuss, but I did not make any assumption. Karen has Clinical Depression and I am sensitive to your situation, but I used an example of a guy I knew who had a problem.....and it wasn't depression.....and handled it well in the interview. He avoided the pitfalls of creating a lie and turned a negative to his benefit. I apologize if you found it to be as if I were making some statement about depression or any thought that you had failed because of it. Your question was what to do, convincing lie or truth. I gave you my advice which is truth and the story of Gerald is a dramatic example to me of how truth can work. Spaw |
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Subject: RE: BS: Interview Tips? From: Bagpuss Date: 04 Apr 01 - 08:17 AM Aploggies if I misunderstood you catspaw. It was when you said "The truth CAN be to your benefit.....even the worst of it probably has a good side somewhere. Find it. If you don't you'll fail in the new job too, even if you get it.". I assumed that the word "too" meant that you were making assumptions about my past work record. Rereading it, I suppose I can see how you may have been referring to your example (but only circuitously, since you were emphasising that he didn't fail in his new job). Anyhow, sorry if I sounded a bit strong. Bagpuss |
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Subject: RE: BS: Interview Tips? From: Mary in Kentucky Date: 04 Apr 01 - 01:44 PM Oh yes Morty, just remembered...important stuff.. 1) Take along with you (written down) the names and dates of your employment history. This may already be on your resume/cv, but many companies require you to fill out an application which can be quite lengthy and detailed. I would always have to use the back of the page to fill in all the info. It helps to have all those dates written down. Several companies would have me list them in such a way (beginning employment month/day/year - ending employment month/day/year) in such a way that the interviewer could quickly notice gaps. My employment had lots of 3 month gaps. They would also ask reson for leaving...I had to put relocation (trailing spouse), position terminated, downsized, etc. A LOT! 2) Make sure you have telephone numbers for your references. 3) Take along extra copies of your resume/cv and references. I aways had fun at interviews...they always seemed so interested in me, and I guess I just like to talk about myself! Knock 'em dead. Mary |
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Subject: RE: BS: Interview Tips? From: Liz the Squeak Date: 04 Apr 01 - 02:58 PM ledge, c'mon, this is MORTY here, she's ALWAYS got a hip flask on her somewhere!!! *BG* LTS |
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Subject: RE: BS: Interview Tips? From: Dave the Gnome Date: 05 Apr 01 - 04:32 AM Very interesting point came up on the radio a couple of days ago. MOST interviewers make up their mind about a person in the first 90 seconds and then spend the rest of the interview trying to justify that first impression. Sad I know but factual apparantly. So... First impressions count VERY highly. Confident entrance, sincere smile, firm handshake and all the usual stuff. Confidence is the big key apparantly. You KNOW you are the right person for the job - even if the interviewer(s) doesn't they will soon! Knock 'em dead and best of luck. Cheers Dave the Gnome |
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Subject: RE: BS: Interview Tips? From: Morticia Date: 05 Apr 01 - 02:13 PM Many, many thanks to all of you for your advice and good wishes. Lots of luck to all the other people experiencing interview hell at the moment.D-day tomorrow morning at 11 am GMT, so crossed digits, appendages, anythings and any interventions solicited from the Deity of your choice most appreciated .More results as they happen. thanks again A Pale but Determined Terri |
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Subject: RE: BS: Interview Tips? From: SINSULL Date: 05 Apr 01 - 03:06 PM Morty - One never fails at an interview. Either the job is a good match for you or it's not. You'll still be the same Morty with the hipflask either way. More advice: Arrive at the interview early enough to check out the place. I went on one, arrived a half hour early to discover a nasty scene in the company cafeteria. The owner hadn't been paying his factory workers if they broke any rules - you were late this morning, NO PAY FOR YOU! I left before the riot broke out. But you can learn a lot about a company by sitting in the reception area or touching up your make-up in the Ladies Room. Get a feel for the whole "tone" of the place. |
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Subject: RE: BS: Interview Tips? From: Liz the Squeak Date: 05 Apr 01 - 05:49 PM Dave the Gnome - I'm outing you as a Radio 2 listener!!! I was listening to that very programme, whilst thinking of a reply for this thread!!! LTS |
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Subject: RE: BS: Interview Tips? From: Margaret V Date: 05 Apr 01 - 11:39 PM Good luck, Morty, I hope the interview goes well and that it seems like a job you'll really enjoy! Be true to yourself. Margaret |
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Subject: RE: BS: Interview Tips? From: Dave the Gnome Date: 06 Apr 01 - 04:19 AM Spot on Liz! A TOG and proud of it as well.... (Sad or what?) DtG |
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Subject: RE: BS: Interview Tips? From: Liz the Squeak Date: 06 Apr 01 - 05:47 AM No, not sad, have you heard some of the junk on these days, and that's just Radio 3! It was a Steve Wright in the afternoon programme wasn't it!! Last Monday?? LTS |
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Subject: RE: BS: Interview Tips? From: GUEST,Roger the skiffler Date: 06 Apr 01 - 06:06 AM Just gone 11am here in the UK,Morty should be going in about now, fingers crossed everyone. RtS (Go get 'em, me wench) |
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Subject: RE: BS: Interview Tips? From: Dave the Gnome Date: 06 Apr 01 - 06:46 AM It was Steve Wright - can't remember the day though. |
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Subject: RE: BS: Interview Tips? From: Frug Date: 07 Apr 01 - 01:32 PM Any news on how the interview went for Morticia |
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Subject: RE: BS: Interview Tips? From: Morticia Date: 07 Apr 01 - 02:32 PM Hi folks.....don't know if I got the job yet but I do know that by utilising some of your suggestions, preparing like a maniac and maybe just a little sprinkle of Mudcat magic, I not only got through it without looking like a damn fool, I even sort of enjoyed it.I guess you can always look back afterwards and think, well I could have said more about....or I didn't mention..... BUT it was the best interview I've ever done and if someone else gets the job I'll know it was because they did a better one, not because I was awful.Should know by Monday, but however it turns out...thank you! |
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Subject: RE: BS: Interview Tips? From: Noreen Date: 07 Apr 01 - 02:54 PM That's really positive, Terri, thanks for letting us know. (Did you try the bananas?) |
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Subject: RE: BS: Interview Tips? From: catspaw49 Date: 07 Apr 01 - 03:08 PM Great job!!! Everyone comes out feeling that way no matter how good a job they have done.....and in your case Terri, I am sooo happy that this one wwent well whether you get the job or not. NOW, you know you can do it!!!! Want a little Spaw tickle now? hehehehehehehehehehhe Spaw |
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Subject: RE: BS: Interview Tips? From: Amergin Date: 07 Apr 01 - 06:08 PM Well, I'm really relieved to hear you followed my suggestion....but maybe next time a trim is in order... |